NCIDQ IDFX Practice Exam

What is the primary function of a door closer?

1. To keep a door permanently closed

2. To automatically return a door to its closed position after it is opened

3. To secure doors in the open position

4. To provide a sound barrier when closed

The correct answer is: To automatically return a door to its closed position after it is opened

The primary function of a door closer is to automatically return a door to its closed position after it has been opened. This mechanism ensures that doors close securely and helps maintain safety, security, and energy efficiency within a building. By automatically closing the door, it prevents drafts, reduces sound transmission, and enhances fire safety by limiting the spread of smoke and flames. This function is crucial in various settings, particularly in commercial and public spaces, where it is important to control access and maintain a conducive environment. The door closer typically uses a hydraulic mechanism or springs to control the speed and force with which the door closes, allowing it to shut quietly and safely without slamming shut. Other answers suggest functions that do not accurately represent the primary purpose of a door closer. For instance, keeping a door permanently closed does not align with the intent of allowing ingress and egress in a facility. Securing doors in the open position is usually the role of a different type of hardware, like door stops or holders. Lastly, while door closures can contribute to sound attenuation, providing a sound barrier is not their primary design function. Understanding this role of a door closer is essential for applications in interior design and architecture.